The quirkiest holiday traditions from across the United States

Michael Pless has been California’s surfing Santa since the 1990s. Hitting the waves at Seal Beach, California, he wears a Santa-themed wetsuit.

Lobster trap Christmas trees are no joke in New England. Here is one in the Plymouth Town Wharf in Plymouth, Mass.

In cities across the US, a new Jewish tradition has begun that involves lighting ice Menorahs on skating rinks to celebrate Chanukah. This photo is from Houston.

Based on a holiday from the Seinfeld universe, people around the US celebrate Festivus — featuring the Festivus pole, the airing of grievances, and, of course, feats of strength!

Image: Seinfeld / Youtube

While most parts of the country are pulling Christmas lights down shortly after Christmas or New Year, Denverites leave them on until the National Western Stock Show in mid-January… or else! Yes, new residents have found this out the hard way.

While most people think of Santa climbing down the chimney, in North Carolina he rappels down the 315-foot freestanding Chimney Rock.

Image: Chimneyrocknc/Instagram

At the St. Louis aquarium, visitors come out to see the city’s famous Scuba Claus… played by a local marine biologist, this Santa isn’t afraid to swim with sharks.

Image: Show Me St. Louis/Youtube

“Sandi” the world’s only 700-ton sand tree is sculpted each holiday season in West Palm Beach, Florida. Besides celebrating the season, it aims to raise awareness for cleaner beaches and oceans.

In Maine, hundreds of skiers and snowboarders dress up like Santa Claus hit the slopes of Sunday River mountain to raise money for a local charity.